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      11-24-2019, 01:32 PM   #1
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In the market - Used M2 vs new M240i

Decided to get something new and was close to purchasing an S3 but found that the seats are uncomfortable compared to those in the S4 and with further reading the S3 is pretty much a VW in Audi clothing. I still love how it looks, but with how much I drive, I can't be uncomfortable.

I then began considering BMW and was looking into the M240i which in most reviews wins over the S3. With it having the B58 which is shared with the Supra makes me a little more confident in the reliability department.

I then started considering a lightly used M2. I found some 2017/2018's with around 10k for high 40's, which will end up being cheaper than a new M240i. The M2 does have the N series motor which I've read mixed things about from a reliability perspective. I did some searching and found plenty of 335's with over 100k for sale so it looks like they are holding up.

I drive 46 miles each way for work, 4-5 days a week, so around 100 per day, 25k or so per year. My current car, a 2013 Subaru BRZ has held up well since it had 6 miles on the clock, now at 170k and still on the original front brake pads.

Those who have experience with the M2, what are your thoughts on long term reliability and maintenance costs with the number of highway miles I drive? Safer to go M2 or M240i? I don't track or anything, really just want a fun daily, thinking the M2 will put a bigger smile on my face, but I think I'd be happy with either.
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      11-24-2019, 01:38 PM   #2
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I would definitely go with the M2. I had an M235i before the M2. The M2 is just so much better handling and sounding than my old car. The main plus for the M240i is that it will get better gas mileage than the M2.
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      11-24-2019, 01:38 PM   #3
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used M2!! BY MILES.

IMO no comparison. i have driven all of them and I hated my drives in the M235 and M240....they felt soft and dull to me. I asked my dealer to stop giving me the M235 as a loaner i hated it so much! lol. Then they gave me an M240 which felt the same to me except faster. My problem wasn't the speed it was the dull steering, the soft handling, the poor brakes. The M2 was a big improvement over the very underwhelming M performance cars. Looks wise, the M2 is way better proportioned than the frankly generic looking standard 2-series.
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      11-24-2019, 01:43 PM   #4
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Yeah, MPG was a consideration I had, I can't believe the M240i gets 30mpg. In my BRZ I get 30-32 MPG with my highway miles. I wonder how bad the M2 is if I am pretty much on cruise control the whole time?

Next question, maintenance. I normally do all of my own maintenance. Transmission fluid, brake fluid, oil, brake pads, etc. My BRZ has only been to the shop twice in 6.5 years and that was for a clutch and wheel bearing replacement. Are these cars self serviceable with a jack & jack stands?
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      11-24-2019, 02:22 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MPR View Post
Yeah, MPG was a consideration I had, I can't believe the M240i gets 30mpg. In my BRZ I get 30-32 MPG with my highway miles. I wonder how bad the M2 is if I am pretty much on cruise control the whole time?

Next question, maintenance. I normally do all of my own maintenance. Transmission fluid, brake fluid, oil, brake pads, etc. My BRZ has only been to the shop twice in 6.5 years and that was for a clutch and wheel bearing replacement. Are these cars self serviceable with a jack & jack stands?
Are m2’s on 19 inch 40/ 35 section tires ?
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      11-24-2019, 05:53 PM   #6
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There's something special about driving an M division product, especially the M2.

Beyond the driving dynamics you have the noise, styling, and uniqueness aspect of it all.
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      11-24-2019, 06:10 PM   #7
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There's something special about driving an M division product, especially the M2.

Beyond the driving dynamics you have the noise, styling, and uniqueness aspect of it all.
Yeah, definitely a huge selling point IMO, I will have no regrets there. While if I buy the M240i, I would be thinking I should have got the M.

Here are the primary things I have to figure out before pulling the trigger:

1. MPG for those that drive mostly on the highway. While driving on the highway, what does your real-time MPG gauge tell you? I get 30 now, I think I could live with 26 if this is accurate.

2. Long-term reliability. I know this is tough since this car is still pretty new. All cars I buy have to go for the long haul since I drive ~25k per year so I will have this thing until likely 150k-200k miles. After 2-3 years it will be high mileage and I wouldn't make much money back so it's worthwhile just keeping it.

3. Ease of maintenance for common things: brake pads, oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid.

4. Manual vs auto. I hear no bad things about the auto so I am leaning towards it since I sit in 15-20 minutes of traffic each way for work, every day. Plus it'll be much easier in the morning while drinking coffee. I think the auto will also be a lot easier to find. But long term, I think replacing a clutch will be easier than having work done on a slush box.

Last edited by MPR; 11-24-2019 at 06:19 PM..
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      11-24-2019, 06:44 PM   #8
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Used M2 all day. When you get that M240i and you see that M2 drive by you.... you don't want that feeling.
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      11-24-2019, 07:04 PM   #9
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If high 40's are in your range, look for an M4.
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      11-24-2019, 07:18 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by NickyC View Post
If high 40's are in your range, look for an M4.
Interesting, how are used M2's and M4's priced the same? What's the catch? I need to do some homework on model year differences and issues etc.

A lot of them that I found for $45k-$50k are at non-BMW dealers which I think I want to avoid.

Budget is $50k, ideally OTD.

Last edited by MPR; 11-24-2019 at 07:42 PM..
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      11-24-2019, 07:49 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MPR View Post
Interesting, how are used M2's and M4's priced the same? What's the catch? I need to do some homework on model year differences and issues etc.

A lot of them that I found for $45k-$50k are at non-BMW dealers which I think I want to avoid.

Budget is $50k, ideally OTD.
Don't ask me, you get way more car with the F8x M3/M4. I think they're one of the best deals in all of autos right now. Can't go wrong, get one!

They also happen to be about the most reliable ///M cars ever, absolute tanks. Also helps they look 100x better than any M2.
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      11-24-2019, 07:53 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by NickyC View Post
Don't ask me, you get way more car with the F8x M3/M4. I think they're one of the best deals in all of autos right now. Can't go wrong, get one!

They also happen to be about the most reliable ///M cars ever, absolute tanks. Also helps they look 100x better than any M2.
I will definitely look into it. Is maintenance cost right about the same between M2/3/4?

Regarding looks, I am content with the M2 from the front and sides, not a big fan of the rear. I really like the size of it, that's it's main advantage over the 3/4.

It doesn't look like there is anything available with under 20k miles from reputable dealers for under $50k.

Last edited by MPR; 11-24-2019 at 08:03 PM..
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      11-24-2019, 08:57 PM   #13
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Originally Posted by MPR View Post
I will definitely look into it. Is maintenance cost right about the same between M2/3/4?

Regarding looks, I am content with the M2 from the front and sides, not a big fan of the rear. I really like the size of it, that's it's main advantage over the 3/4.

It doesn't look like there is anything available with under 20k miles from reputable dealers for under $50k.
Yeah, I can't see maintenance being much different between the two cars (oil changes, spark plugs, rotors, etc.) Maybe others can chime in but I can't think of anything on the M3/4 which would be a lot more money maintenance wise. I'm sure the deals are out there, the M3/4s have taken a pretty decent hit depreciation wise the past 12 months. You can no doubt find 15s and 16s with under 40k miles for around $40k. The comp pack didn't show up on the cars until 2016, but who cares. If you want the extra oomph, just tune it and throw some coil overs on it and you're better off with the money you've saved (traction is always going to be your enemy in either car, all flavors are fast enough stock).

I can't recommend the cars enough, and I agree, you don't have to worry about a crappy looking rear end on the M3/4 like you do with the M2. The M3/4 have an on so sexay rear end.
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      11-24-2019, 09:06 PM   #14
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If you can afford the M car, you buy the M car, period. Or you'll regret it.
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      11-24-2019, 09:51 PM   #15
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I have no bias either way toward the m240, M2 or the M 3/4. But there are many members here who have opted for the m240 versus the M2 and it had nothing to do with price. They felt it was a better all-around daily driver and it had more low-end torque which suited there daily driver needs more.
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      11-24-2019, 10:01 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by thebmw View Post
I have no bias either way toward the m240, M2 or the M 3/4. But there are many members here who have opted for the m240 versus the M2 and it had nothing to do with price. They felt it was a better all-around daily driver and it had more low-end torque which suited there daily driver needs more.
I agree the M240i is a better choice for some. Honestly I think it's the better choice for me considering my long commutes, especially in northeast winters, but I think I can make the M2 work. I think it's a lot of psychology that plays into it with having the M2's red headed step child/brother the M240 (no offense to any redheads out there).

M240 Advantages:
  • Potentially better motor
  • xDrive for those who need it
  • Fuel economy
  • Buying new 240 instead of used M2 (considering same price point)
  • Cheaper replacement parts?

M240 Disadvantages:
  • Not an M
  • Softer handling/steering compared to the M2
  • M2 has nicer/more aggressive front/fenders & interior

Last edited by MPR; 11-24-2019 at 10:12 PM..
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      11-25-2019, 03:12 AM   #17
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I very recently made this decision, ended up picking up a used 2017 m240i rwd manual with 15500 km's for $39.5kCAD. I am very satisfied with my decision and I made it based off of a couple main factors to add to your list.

1. Adaptive suspension vs always stiff
This was necessary for me because I have some chronic lower back pains (from bad posture mostly) and Toronto's streets, especially during the winter are BRUTAL.
2. B58 vs N55
In addition to all the usual stuff people say (closed vs open, hpfps, etc), I opted for the future increased modding potential with the b58's use in the supra
3. M vs mperf
This is my first car, and intend to keep it for at least 5 years. Especially with the things I have done to it, I can't necessarily rely on bmw or warranties so I need to be able to maintain upkeep without paying some of mparts outrageous pricing. Among other pricing discrepancies between them, the difference the models make for insurance costs is key (especially under 25)
4. Leather colour options
Ever since I was a wee lad, I always had a liking for BMW's red leather interior, and it simply was not an option for m2s
5. I have taken it to the drag strip and got the exact reaction I wanted. Got underestimated by a built foxbody, and had the last laugh.


I NEVER feel resentment or jealousy towards m2s, I am very happy being a normal 2er 😜
Also I disagreed with some things stated previously.
The m2 and m240i have almost identical brake setups, with the former having slightly larger, drilled discs instead.
Even if you opt for the auto, the zf is more the capable of servicing most drivers needs, and seeing how it's being used in all the new m cars, it can't be that bad?
The handling and steering woes can be easily remidied with a LCA swap (and some others)
The cosmetic styling can be adjusted to equal if not better
I compared with my good buddy with an frs and we pretty much get the same distance out of our gas tanks, with my driving still in the spirited 'honeymoon' phase
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      11-25-2019, 08:38 AM   #18
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I just recently made the same decision. I ended up with the M2. I got a 2017 that had come off lease with ~28k miles for 45k OTD. The entire time I was looking for an M240 in EB or an M2 in LBB, or MG if I really could not find a blue one.

The market for the cars is definitely all over the place. It took me almost 4 months to find the right car. LBB definitely has a price premium over black or white or grey on the market. Manual definitely has a price premium over DCT which is odd given that currently there are 3x as many manual M2s listed on Auto trader as DCT cars and the manual ones sit for much longer. The manuals also usually have fewer miles. My assumption is people bought the manuals and then realized they either didn't know how to drive a manual or that they didn't want to DD a manual.

Lastly, body damage. I found that finding an M2 without repainted panels to be almost impossible. Main culprit the rear fenders. People must drive them like idiots and smash them all the time. Probably not as noticable on the black and white cars but on LBB you can spot the cheapo McPaint-n-Go paint jobs from a mile away. The missing PPF film also gives it away.
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      11-25-2019, 04:11 PM   #19
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A couple things to also think about: The M240i has a torque-converter auto while the auto in the M2 is a DCT. In addition to the driving characteristic differences, that's something to take into account since you work on your cars.

The M240i doesn't come with an LSD. I think dealers can maybe install one as an option? Anyway, the diff in the M2 is electronically controlled and has a clutch pack to continuously control how much lockup you get. If you don't enjoy the occasional oversteer moment this is probably moot, unless it snows where you live and you plan on driving the car in the winter.

Both cars are cool, hope you get whatever works best for you.
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      11-25-2019, 06:00 PM   #20
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MPR View Post
Decided to get something new and was close to purchasing an S3 but found that the seats are uncomfortable compared to those in the S4 and with further reading the S3 is pretty much a VW in Audi clothing. I still love how it looks, but with how much I drive, I can't be uncomfortable.

I then began considering BMW and was looking into the M240i which in most reviews wins over the S3. With it having the B58 which is shared with the Supra makes me a little more confident in the reliability department.

I then started considering a lightly used M2. I found some 2017/2018's with around 10k for high 40's, which will end up being cheaper than a new M240i. The M2 does have the N series motor which I've read mixed things about from a reliability perspective. I did some searching and found plenty of 335's with over 100k for sale so it looks like they are holding up.

I drive 46 miles each way for work, 4-5 days a week, so around 100 per day, 25k or so per year. My current car, a 2013 Subaru BRZ has held up well since it had 6 miles on the clock, now at 170k and still on the original front brake pads.

Those who have experience with the M2, what are your thoughts on long term reliability and maintenance costs with the number of highway miles I drive? Safer to go M2 or M240i? I don't track or anything, really just want a fun daily, thinking the M2 will put a bigger smile on my face, but I think I'd be happy with either.
There is no problem with the N55. It's a great motor, tons of torque, and sounds fabulous! Much better sounding than the S55, which I had on my last M3.

There is nothing wrong with the M240i. It's a great car. But I'd buy the M2. You will have a classic in your garage, rather than a run of the mill BMW. It will definitely hold its value better. Just get one with a 6MT! Use the money saved to add a Fabspeed Catted Downpipe, Bootmod3 tune, and a Burger clutch stop!

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      11-25-2019, 06:09 PM   #21
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Quote:
Originally Posted by MPR View Post
I will definitely look into it. Is maintenance cost right about the same between M2/3/4?

Regarding looks, I am content with the M2 from the front and sides, not a big fan of the rear. I really like the size of it, that's it's main advantage over the 3/4.

It doesn't look like there is anything available with under 20k miles from reputable dealers for under $50k.
You said earlier you wanted a fun car. Having owned both an F80 M3 and now an F87 M2, I can say there is no comparison. The F87 is tons more nimble, quick, and fun.

And if you decide to go F80, don't settle for a non-Competition model. The steering is very numb and non-communicative.

Either way, the M3/4 feels and drives bigger (which it is) but also heavier (which is odd since it's really pretty close in weight to the M2)
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      11-25-2019, 06:52 PM   #22
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Thanks for the feedback guys. I'm going to test drive both and go from there, but I like the idea of getting an M2. Unfortunately resale value doesn't matter as when I am done with it, it'll likely have 150k-200k miles, if it lasts that long; I keep cars 4-6 years and drive ~25k a year. Fortunately I am not in a rush, going to begin looking now and hope to find something before/when Spring starts in 2020. Everything I've found used for the most part is at one of those non-make dealerships which I don't trust.

Those of you that bought used, did you go private, or a non-BMW dealer? I have a feeling I will have to put a kidney as a down payment at a BMW dealer.
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